Volx in the Luberon
Explore by bike the unspoilt areas that make up the Luberon PNR, or Regional Natural Park, riding to the heart of the Luberon Range and the Pays de Forcalquier Montagne de Lure area.
Discover landscapes beloved of such fine regional writers as Jean Giono. With all the heritage sites, history and varied local areas to unearth, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
As regards activities, you won’t be disappointed either, with not just the cycling on offer, but also many cultural tours and relaxation options to add variety to your trip.
From €240 per person
DAY 1 – CYCLE TO FORCALQUIER (Manosque – Forcalquier: 28.5km)
On arrival at Manosque, pick up your rental bike(s) at Bachelas Bike Shop. Explore the historic town, the ramparts surrounding its old centre pierced by three monumental gateways. Make the most of this trip to visit, at your own pace, places beloved of famed regional writer, Jean Giono. Leaving Manosque, head towards Forcalquier. Arriving at the village of Volx, stop to visit its Ecomusée de l’Olivier, about the local olive groves. Continue towards Forcalquier, landscapes alternating between rocky stretches and pine woods. Gather your strength for the climb to the town of Forcalquier, the highest spot on the Méditerranée à Vélo cycle route.
- Night’s accommodation at the Hôtel *** Charembeau; use of the outdoor heated pool; plus evening meal included in the price.
DAY 2 – CYCLING FOR THE STARS IN HAUTE PROVENCE! (Forcalquier – Saint-Michel l’Observatoire & Salagon Priory: 20km)
Before leaving Forcalquier, take the time to wander its cobbled lanes and see the citadel. At Notre Dame de Provence Chapel, enjoy amazing views over the Luberon, the Lure Range, the Plateau de Valensole and the Monts du Vaucluse. Next, cycle along the D4100 road to Salagon Priory; you’ll be warmly welcomed at its remarkable gardens displaying a stunning range of plants. Head back to Forcalquier to then rejoin the Méditerranée à Vélo cycle route towards Saint-Michel l’Observatoire. This place’s renowned astronomy centre is located at the entrance to the village. Stop to visit it, even booking a tour to learn about observing the stars.
- Night’s accommodation at the Hôtel *** Galilée, where your apéritif will be served at a terrace with fabulous views...
DAY 3 – THE HILLS AROUND MANOSQUE (Saint-Michel l’Observatoire – Manosque: 28km)
Get back on the Méditerranée à Vélo cycle route, viewing the former barons’ village of Lincel. Cycle on to the traditional Provençal village of Reillanne, passing via the Moulin Delestic, a mill. Leave your bike on the village square to climb by foot to St Denis Chapel. After this, follow the trail marked Les Collines de Manosque as far as the town of Manosque. The cycle path is a delight, transporting you through contrasting Luberon landscapes, cultivated fields alternating with wild little valleys. Returning to Manosque, give your bike back to the rental company. It’s possible to head home by train, using Manosque SNCF train station.
Cycling touring map for In Giono’s footsteps
Detailed trail at: https://bit.ly/2Oy3f1g
GPX tracks available from My Maps, by clicking on the icon ‘‘télécharger l’itinéraire en KML’’ (download the route in KML), then import the tracks via a tracking app such as OpenRunner.
Getting there:
By train, via Manosque SNCF train station, or by car.
The bike hire company you can use is located in Manosque.
For further info: www.mestrajets.lio.laregion.fr.